Dont let the covered dish chaos fool you. There are rules to be followed. Here are the dos and donts of attending a Southernpotluckthat grandma would definitely approve of. Hector Manuel Sanchez. Basically, never show up without confirming what is actually needed and what you are bringing. Do: Consider the Guest List How many people are coming? Does anyone have a food allergy? Credit:Stacy K. Allen, Food Stylist: Torie Cox, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster...

Have you heard of #2? Bold Color If you thought exteriors were limited to just neutral hues, think again. It results in a more cohesive design experience throughout the residence. Credit: Laurey W. Glenn Seating areas tucked in and around plants can create an intimate experience, she suggests. If youre working with a larger budget, a plunge pool is another option thats both functional and aesthetic. Consider how utilitarian elements such as gates and handrails can be more interesting and unique, she explains....

Getty Images Flowers arent just ornamental, they can be beneficial, too. This is especially true when it comes to yourvegetable garden. They thrive in partial to full shade and will need moist soil. Credit:Getty Images It can tolerate full sun to partial shade and will need well-drained soil. Once mature, it can reach up to 10 tall and wide. Lavender Onions and garlic have met their match. Consider it a low-maintenance choice thats heat tolerant to USDA Zone 10 and cold hardy to USDA Zone 4....

Even though it might be tempting. Ahh, the trusty air fryer. Turns out, there are a few things that are better left for other preparation methods. Credit: Getty/CASEZY Take a gander of this list of top foods that are best to avoid cooking 1. The batter will drip down into the base of the machine, making a big mess to cleanup afterward. Not to mention, it could even set off the alarm on models with alert systems....

These substitutes have your creaks and squeaks covered. Here are the 7 best substitutes for WD-40 for when you need a quick fix. Simply spritz the area of concern to alleviate squeaky hinges instantly, all without getting your hands dirty. Credit:Getty Images/Nariman Safarov Simply dip a paper towel in a small amount of oil, and apply to the desired area. Simply apply a thin amount all over the target area, and reapply every few months as needed....

The pros say you should avoid these items when creating a welcoming space for guests. Take their insights into account as you get ready for Granny’s Thanksgiving visit! it’s possible for you to still allow these photos to shine in other areas of the home. Credit:Robbie Caponetto; Styling: Kendra Surface Place them in your primary suite, basement hallway, family room, and beyond. In other words, don’t use the space as a mini in-home storage unit....

Have you heard of #5? These are the trends we can’t wait to see in kitchens next year. They say that thekitchenis the heart of the home, and for good reason. Credit: Molly Culver Life is lived around meals, which all originate in that one space. Laura Botelhois the founder ofLaura Botelho Interiorsin Dallas, Texas. Brittany Zachosis the founder ofBrittany Zachos Designwith an office in Sarasota, Florida. Katy Kindredis the co-founder ofKindred Studioin Charlotte, North Carolina....

Save on these living room items designers say are not with the splurge. Wall Art Artwork doesn’t have to cost a pretty penny to transform your space. “Consider curating a collection of books that speak to your personal interests or hobbies,” she says. Credit:Brie Williams Throw Pillows While a living room essential,throw pillowsdon’t need to cost you a ton. “Plus, its often more budget-friendly to buy pieces separately.” “This is sometimes the better way to make a space more creative and personal anyways....

Meet The Experts Getty Images 1. Don’t leave a room empty-handed, says Rapinchuk. Once things are out of control, it becomes overwhelming to get it back into shape, she explains. Credit:Getty Images You want to avoid permitting other family members to add to the piles. Never mix chemicals such as ammonia with bleach because it will create a caustic gas, says Clyde. Instead, always read labels and know what you are using on surfaces....

No need to smother them under onions. Unless you want to, of course. Pair them withseasonal vegetables, and don’t forget to end the meal with asweet treat. Credit: Alison Miksch You have more wiggle room in getting a nice, crispy sear on your chop. So skip over the boneless chops with little or no fat and go for the tastier bone-in. Be creative and use a blend of your favorite seasonings and dry herbs with the salt....

Good taste never goes out of style. These old-school tips for entertaining are here to stayand for good reason. Here, we’ve rounded up seven old-school approaches to entertaining that are here to stayand for good reason. Tablecloth: Veranda Design, Courtesy Lisa Corti; Placemats and Flatware: Courtesy Soirée Everyday; Glassware: Cosimo Pink & Yellow by Campbell-Rey, Courtesy Collecto.Credit:CARMEL BRANTLEY Do your guests a favor and spring for paper invites rather than an e-vite or a quick text....

They could be doing more harm than good. “Fun containers and organizing products are like the icing on the cake,” she says. Last but not least, don’t solely buy organizing bins because they’re on sale. Nicely arranged jewelry and hats double as decor.Credit:Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper “Sticking with the same style and color of bin is essential to creating a visually pleasing space.” Not Using Labels All bins, no matter their style, should be labeled, Glibberman adds....

You may want to rethink using these hues in your kitchen. Anna Still and Marguerite Johnson ofStill Johnsonin Birmingham, Alabama, say: “No rules! We think you’re free to use any color if done correctly.” Credit: Photo: Laurey W. Glenn “Everything else probably has a time and place,” she says. Amy Switzer, the Dallas, Texas-based founder ofAmy Switzer Design, agrees. Very Dark Hues Switzer says that these colors may make a kitchen feel smaller and less inviting....